test taking: SAT, ACT, and more

Want to get college credit for a class without actually taking the course? The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP), offered by the College Board, provides students with the opportunity to gain college credit for certain courses if they perform well on the subject exams.

When you head off to take the ACT or SAT, don't let forgetfulness or inattention surprise you with something unexpected and affect your test-taking abilities. Here are some true stories of unexpected events.

Preparing to take standardized tests, from the SAT to the GRE, requires an organized study plan in order to achieve desired score results. To avoid cramming, you should begin preparing for your scheduled test at least 8 weeks before the actual test date.

In March 2014, College Board announced that a redesigned SAT will be available beginning spring 2016. According to the president of the College Board, these changes stem from standardized tests having become "far too disconnected from the work of our high schools." The new SAT will more closely reflect the real work of school and career. Here is an overview of the key changes for the redesigned 2016 SAT.

The ACT and SAT are standardized tests that allow colleges to see where you stand academically in relation to other students. To take full advantage of your education, you should take either the ACT and/or the SAT in the spring of your junior year. This way, you'll have time to re-take the tests, if you choose, before college application deadlines. Test prep aids are available for both the ACT and the SAT to help you prepare.

ACT scores are one of the tools universities use when selecting students for admission. They also use score reports for other purposes, such as course placement and student guidance. Here are five examples of ways universities use score reports.

Many high school students agonize over whether to take the ACT or the SAT. The easy answer to this question is to talk to an admissions officer at your college or university of choice and see if the school has a preference. Here are some other pointers.